This historicising bust of Shakespeare may well have been one of a group of British Worthies. Shakespeare, along with John Milton, Isaac Newton and other figures became important symbols in the 18th century for what were perceived as the great British traditions of independent and creative thought and action. This particular bust is a version of one in the Temple of British Worthies at Stowe, Buckinghamshire; the bust at Stowe was carved by Rysbrack for Lord Cobham in about 1730. This version may also have been one of a set, although its original context is unknown.

Materials & Making - This terracotta bust was probably cast from a mould. Although terracotta is fired clay, and the clay is often modelled by the artist, this terracotta can also be used as a reproductive medium. This particular bust is based on a stone one at Stowe, and almost certainly a mould was taken of the stone version, which was then used to cast this terracotta. The exact date this occurred is uncertain, but it might have been some years after the original stone bust was carved in 1730.

People -

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  Shakespeare by Louis-François Roubiliac